Satsuma Pest

Question

I have a Satsuma orange tree which I planted as a 24-inch tree 4 years ago. The tree produced fruit the first year and every year thereafter. It has produced flowers and small buds. However, all of the buds were eaten by something every year, so this year I totally fenced in the tree with 1.5 inch diameter chicken wire. About 2 weeks ago, it produced dozens of flowers and small buds, so I thought the chicken wire kept out the pests. Unfortunately, I was wrong, as over the course of two days all of pea-sized oranges have been eaten by a pest. I assume it is birds but I am surprised that they could get through the chicken wire. Do you have any suggestions on how to keep out the pests, which may be birds? Possibly use some sort of mesh? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

If you suspect birds, I would suggest hanging old CDs or pie plates around the tree. The movement and flashing tends to keeps away. You can also try bird netting. It is a very fine netting sold at garden store that you can drape on the tree and the birds have a difficult time getting through it. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/fegen/protect-fruit-tree-birds.htm